college of education happenings - unomaha.edu

SUMMER|FALL 2017

HAPPENINGSC O L L E G E O F E D U C A T I O N

U N I V E R S I T Y O F N E B R A S K A A T O M A H A

ANNOUNCING THE SCHOOL OFHEALTH AND KINESIOLOGY

ANNOUNCING THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH AND KINESIOLOGY

We're paving the way for future growth

CREATING A CULTURE OF SUPPORT AND SUCCESS

Meet our Academic Advisors

4

10

12 STELLAR STUDENT STORIES

Exemplary students prepare for successful careers

DYNAMIC & GROWING: CREATING A CULTURE OF SUPPORT AND SUCCESS

We’ve come a long way since Quonset huts. If you remember a time when UNO’s campus was much smaller, you may recall the Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) programs before they officially became a School—and you may remember when the programs and early researchers operated from two metal buildings called Quonset huts.

As HPER programs are some of the oldest and most established at UNO, you can imagine the tremendous growth and transformation that has occurred over the decades. In this issue we are excited to announce a new change that will take us to the next level of growth: HPER has changed its name to the School of Health and Kinesiology (H&K).

We look forward to having you learn more about H&K and about the talented people who bring their passion to work every day. People like Dr. Danae Dinkel, who is studying the health benefits of play and physical activity in young children, and Dr. Dustin Slivka who is performing the most cutting-edge research of its kind in his Exercise Physiology Lab.

Nancy A. Edick, EdDLois G. Roskens Dean

Quonset huts and Omaha University in 1946, home of the future School of Health and Kinesiology (H&K)

You will also notice a common theme throughout this issue: the essential role that a support system plays in our students’ success. You'll meet our Academic Advisors who create a culture of support through great communication, trusting relationships, and professional development. And, most importantly, you will meet several of our Stellar Students—all who credit members of their families for creating strong support systems which both inspired their journey to COE and ensured their success here.

Students like Elementary Education major Gaby Amador. Raised by hardworking parents who didn’t have the opportunity to finish middle school or high school themselves, Gaby’s parents launched all their children on stable and strong academic paths. Or non-traditional student Aaron Beard, whose young son’s cochlear implants have led Aaron to learn everything he can about the field of Speech-Language Pathology so he can help other kids.

Whether alumni, supporter, or friend, we hope you enjoy reading about the exciting changes in our college and the people driving our success. We encourage you to stay connected by visiting our website at coe.unomaha.edu, and remember, our doors are always open and we welcome you to visit any of our three buildings: Roskens Hall, the School of Health & Kinesiology, and the Biomechanics Research Building.

SUMMER•FALL 2016 | 5

School’s New Name Reflects Decades of Growthby Sam Petto

The University of Nebraska at Omaha’s (UNO) School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) has changed its name to the School of Health and Kinesiology (H&K).

The new name better reflects the School's innovative curriculum and the vast range of student opportunities that it offers.

The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved the change in Oct. 2016, and the School has been moving forward to officially assume the new name effective Aug. 2017.

School Director Ronald Bulbulian says the new name speaks to the School's interdisciplinary, research-engaged approach to education, an approach that’s evolved since its beginning as a preparation program for physical education teachers.

"Today, our students explore a wide variety of disciplines dedicated to improving quality of life. Areas of study include Exercise Physiology, Athletic Training, Public Health and Health Behavior, Physical Activity and Health Promotion, Physical Education, and Recreation & Leisure Studies," Bulbulian said. "The name 'Health and Kinesiology' encompasses all of these areas and supports market trends in dynamic and growing disciplines."

The School of H&K's mission will remain the same: to prepare students for successful careers or advanced academic studies. The School will remain housed in UNO's College of Education.

In the coming year, UNO students will see signage change outside of the HPER building as it becomes the H&K building. The building will continue to house the School as well as the Wellness Center.

DYNAMIC & GROWING: THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH

AND KINESIOLOGY

Dr. Ronald Bulbulian Director, Professor

Dr. Michael Messerole Assistant Director, Associate Professor

Dr. Marcia AdlerInstructor, Public Health

Jessica BaldwinInstructor, Physical Education

Dr. Christopher BurcalAssistant Professor, Athletic Training

Dr. Jason D. Coleman Associate Professor, Public Health

Dr. Danae Dinkel Assistant Professor, Physical Education

Dr. Sofia Jawed-Wessel Assistant Professor, Public Health

Dr. Jung-Min Lee Assistant Professor, Physical Education

Dr. John M. Noble Associate Professor, Physical Education

Edward Panton Instructor, Physical Education

Dr. Song-Young ParkAssistant Professor, Exercise Physiology

Dr. Aja Kneip Pelster Assistant Professor, Public Health

Dr. Adam Rosen Assistant Professor, Athletic Training

Dr. Dustin Slivka Associate Professor, Exercise Physiology

Dr. Richard Stacy Professor, Public Health

Samuel Wilkins Instructor, Athletic Training

Glen WraggeInstructor, Physical Education

H&K

H&K: WHO WE ARE


DYNAMIC & GROWING:

6 | HAPPENINGS SUMMER•FALL 2017 | 7

STUDYING THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PLAYIn the H&K Health Promotions Lab, Dr. Danae Dinkel’s approach to studying the physical activity of infants and children is rooted in creative problem-solving and interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. Dinkel is passionate about the activity of children because of the life-long health benefits. "When people hear physical activity, they think weight loss. But activity has benefits beyond weight. For example, physical activity of infants may be linked to health throughout their entire life. Research shows early motor skill development in infants may allow for more exploration, richer language development, and better cognitive outcomes. It leads to increased play as active infants grow. When they reach elementary and middle school age, physical activity and fitness is linked to higher academic achievement." Studying how children play and move is a large part of Dr. Dinkel’s research as the science of play gains traction outside the academic world. A current collaborative project with playground manufacturer BCI Burke, RDG Planning & Design, and COE Early Childhood researchers Dr. Deb Wisneski and Dr. Miriam Kuhn is studying how young children use playground equipment. For their part of the study, Dr. Dinkel’s students went into the field at two early childhood centers to video record infants and toddlers engaging in outdoor play. They evaluated play behaviors and interactions with peers and adults. Based on the team’s analysis, BCI Burke is designing new equipment for the centers to better fit the needs and interests of young children. Students plan to return after the newly designed equipment is installed to see if the children are using the equipment the way it was designed, and how their motor skills are affected. Dr. Dinkel’s solution-oriented, take-the-initiative approach to teaching creates a culture of problem solving in her lab. "Students work alongside me, but I encourage them try to figure things out on their own first. In the BCI Burke project,

Faculty Spotlight | Dr. Danae Dinkel

For Kailey Snyder, making big change

in the world is on her to-do list, and

she has the drive—and the support

system in place—to make it happen.

Growing up, Kailey's passion for health and wellness was instilled early as she watched her mother complete medical school and residency to become a pediatrician. Kailey recognized that her childhood family dynamic was unique. "I was one of the only people in my group of friends whose mother worked. I was surrounded by a traditional, stay-at-home-mom culture, but my mother was the breadwinner."

Kailey, doctoral student in H&K's Exercise Science program and new mother, is excited that her baby daughter, Isla, will grow up with a similar experience, "I love that my mom was very independent. My memory is of her doing something very important. I hope Isla sees me in the same way."

When Kailey finished high school, it was expected she attend college, and she had big plans—go away to college; get into the workforce as quickly as possible; and change the world. She graduated from University of Iowa in three years and began working as a health coach. She enjoyed her job, but she wasn’t creating the large-scale changes she longed for.

"It was great helping one person lower their blood pressure by teaching them healthy habits, or seeing one of my company’s health outcomes improve, but I wanted to make a bigger impact."

In 2013, Kailey's husband Chris was accepted to medical school and they moved back to Omaha. While looking at UNO graduate programs, she connected with assistant professor Dr. Danae Dinkel and accepted a graduate assistant (GA) position.

"My husband has always supported my dreams. Even though we were living on my income, he was completely supportive of me going back to school and living on a GA salary."

Kailey completed her Master of Science in Physical Activity with a Health Promotion Concentration in 2016 and is one year into her doctoral program. She credits Dr. Dinkel's support as the reason she’s continued on at UNO. "Dr. Dinkel is a fantastic advisor and mentor.

She gives 100%. She has shown me you can be both researcher and mother."

Under the guidance of Dr. Dinkel, Kailey has administered two needs assessment to over 800 Omaha mothers, determining their perceptions of social support and causes of stress as well as evaluating their experiences with physical activity while breastfeeding. Both assessments will be used to guide the development of her dissertation,

which will focus on the prenatal health and activity levels of moms-to-be and how it affects infant developmental milestones and outcomes.

After data is gathered from the needs assessments, Kailey hopes to develop an online mental health and physical education support program for pregnant women called Mental and Physical Support (MAPS) for Moms. "Only 20% of pregnant women are getting the recommended 150 minutes a week of activity. I hope to prove that support and interventions can inspire increased activity in pregnant women and lead to positive health outcomes such as easier birth experiences."

Kailey has worked as a teaching assistant and part-time instructor within H&K and pays it forward by creating a support system for her own students. "Although I had a traditional academic path, teaching helps me understand the barriers that affect non-traditional students. Recently, a student felt she had to miss a test because her child care fell through. I worked with my student so she could take her test. The culture of support for students is continuously improving at UNO, and I'm proud to be part of that culture."

I challenged my students to find a solution for observation protocol in a childcare setting. A motivated student found an example in academic literature of a coding system—there were codes for activities like jumping, codes for type of environment, codes for extraneous objects—he proposed this coding system to myself and we adapted it as our observational tool for the study." To expand on studies like these, Dr. Dinkel is looking for funding for future projects in the recently installed Play Lab in Roskens Hall as well as the Motor Development Lab in the Biomechanics Research Building. "We hope to begin a longitudinal study of physical activity and motor development from the onset of sitting to the onset of walking. We are also interested to see how parents interact with their kids and how they promote play. For example, do they help right away or encourage their child to do it themselves? We don’t know yet what’s good or bad; we'll just be observing. The major activity guidelines for infants is around tummy time, but there could be other things parents and providers could be doing to promote healthy active development. In the future, we want to know the earliest time to intervene to help establish healthy activity habits."

H&KSTELLAR STUDENTS

H&K

"Although I had a traditional academic path,

teaching helps me understand the barriers

that affect non-traditional students."

Kailey Snyder | PhD Student, Exercise Science

H&K HIGHLIGHTSnew students admitted to H&K master’s programs a 64% increase from 2015

in grant-funded research

86

$1.5+ MILLIONExercise Physiology

Athletic Training

Public Health or Health Behavior

Physical Education

Recreation & Leisure Studies

Physical Activity & Health Promotion

6areas of focus


Amber Preister | Undergraduate Student, Public Health

H&K

A GLIMPSE INSIDE THE LABTreadmills, exercise bikes, and a weight machine line the

walls. At first glance, you might mistake this room for a

small fitness facility. But this is no average room. This

is Dr. Dustin Slivka's Exercise Physiology Lab--one of the

most innovative research facilities of its type in the U.S.

Funded primarily by the Department of Defense, Dr.

Slivka’s research is used to help soldiers in the field with

a focus on improving athletic and muscular endurance

and performance in extreme climates. Specific weather

conditions can be recreated in the lab's Environmental

Chamber—a specially-designed room with controls for

temperature, humidity, and altitude.

How extreme environments affect cells offers clues to

unlocking the causes of aging or origin of diseases such

as diabetes and periphery artery disease. "The pathology

of many diseases has an origin in the function of

mitochondria. We study the effects of exercise in certain

environmental conditions on a cellular level and how that

impacts health, disease, and performance."

What makes this research so innovative is the use of human

biological samples. Biopsies are taken before and after

testing and the tiny muscle samples are stored in freezers in

the Exercise Biology Lab. Samples are meticulously prepared

over several days using cutting-edge molecular techniques

and then analyzed to provide data about how the muscles

respond to the testing conditions.

Students work hand-in-hand with Dr. Slivka during the entire

process. "The highlight of our lab is our students: how smart

they are, how hard they work. It is especially fulfilling to watch

their confidence grow. Students come in timid, a little unsure

of themselves, and their confidence grows tremendously as

they work with clients or perform more duties in the lab. It's

great to see a student begin to find the answers to their own

questions, to realize, 'Hey! I can figure this out!'"

Students also gain hands-on experience by running many

aspects of fitness testing offered to the public for a small

fee. Some of the more popular tests measure aerobic

capacity or body composition--like Underwater (or

Hydrostatic) Weighing, the current gold standard of

measuring body fat.

Dr. Slivka's students practice their professional skills

with clients every Monday and Thursday by providing

one-on-one help to clients in the Adult Fitness Program.

This instructor-led group class offers specialized

exercise to adults who want to maintain quality of life

and independent lifestyle but struggle with physical

challenges like obesity, mobility changes, advanced

age, or rehab situations. Clients work on goals related

to daily living like balance, stability, and lifting.

Contributing to the greater good through his research

is rewarding for Dr. Slivka. "Little pieces are critical

to the endpoint. We may not be curing cancer in this

lab, but we are working alongside other institutions to

provide integral pieces of information that contribute to

a common goal."

H&K HIGHLIGHTS

Amber Preister is no stranger to supporting

and serving others. Since high school, she’s

worked and volunteered with children,

aging adults, and people with disabilities.

Amber, a senior in H&K's Public Health program, refined her academic path after helping her family through a difficult time.

During her freshman year at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), Amber’s grandparents were injured in a car accident. They had lived independently prior, but the accident sent them to a care facility. Amber recalls visiting once a week and accompanying her grandfather to physical therapy, "It really raised his spirits."

Connecting with the other residents in the care facility was an "aha" moment for Amber. "I enjoyed spending time with the residents—listening to their stories, spending time with people whose families didn't visit often—I realized I could be a support system and maybe that could be a career."

Around the same time, Amber found herself more inspired by her public health courses rather than her major of pre-physical therapy. She pitched the idea of

STELLAR STUDENTS

transferring to UNO to her parents. Her sister graduated from UNO and had a great experience, and after researching the field of public health, Amber’s parents were excited and on board.

Originally from a small town of less than 1,000 people, Amber recalls the challenges of the transfer. “It was hard transferring in the middle of my sophomore year. Moving to a big city was also an adjustment. I'd only visited Omaha with my parents, so I had never driven here. Luckily, my roommate helped me get around!"

Support from the H&K advising team was also essential. "They’ve always supported me. When I have questions,

they make sure those questions get answered. When I go in to discuss what classes need to be taken, they make sure I am taking the classes that I need. I can see an advisor and come out less stressed than I was before."

She also recalls the support she received from long-time faculty member, Dr. Richard Stacy, "At first, I didn’t talk in class so I would meet with Dr. Stacy after class to work through various subjects. He recognized that I was not shy, and he encouraged me to start speaking up."

Dr. Stacy nominated Amber for her Dean's Award last winter. In his nomination letter he wrote, "I am finishing my 33rd year here at UNO, and Amber is easily in the top 5% of students I have taught over the years."

With Dr. Stacy's encouragement, Amber served as president of Eta Sigma Gamma, a student organization for public health education students. Committed to campus health initiatives, she assisted with the Smoke-Free UNO effort in 2016. Through Students United for Global Health, she helped organize a 5K run to raise $1,000 for a well in N'gola, Mali in 2015.

Her final academic commitment is an upcoming fall internship with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA), an organization working to ensure older adults remain active, independent and in their own homes.

Amber will graduate in winter 2017 with a public health degree and certificate of gerontology. After graduation, she hopes to work full-time for ENOA or for an assisted living facility and eventually enter a gerontology graduate program. She is excited to enter the public health field and help aging adults maintain their whole health.

Faculty Spotlight | Dr. Dustin Slivka

H&K


board of certification exampass-rate by graduatingathletic training students

scholarly presentations by exercise physiology students

100%

19Public health students testify before the Nebraska Legislature » Bianca Ruiz on bill LB427 to authorize policies relating to pregnant and parenting students, including breastfeeding accommodations.

» Sierra Garth on bill LB73 to prohibit the sale or transfer of tobacco, vapor, & alternative nicotine products to anyone under 21.


Through the advising relationship, a culture of support and success is created as undergraduate students become confident in understanding their program, college, and university requirements.

Students gain consistent support from someone who they have built a trusting relationship with and have a base where they can receive information about resources to address any challenges they may be facing. Advisors help students understand how individual elements fit into their broader education experience, and they challenge students to achieve their goals. Advisors serve as liaison and advocate for students throughout their academic career.

What is advising like today and how has it changed over the years?Advising has evolved from faculty advising, or centrally located professional advisors serving students assigned alphabetically, to a model arranged by major. Today, advising is more holistic, and in addition to providing information regarding courses and plans of study, professional academic advisors now partner with their advisees to research career options, campus and community resources, scholarships, social-emotional support, probation, and academic support. In addition to advising and orientation, the College of Education academic advisors take lead roles in recruitment and retention. Our office is a "one stop shop" resource for our college’s students, staff and faculty. We provide data to inform decisions related to programming, recruitment, retention and accreditation.

Describe COE’s advising model.The COE academic advisors are available in two locations. Roskens Hall houses the Office of Academic Advising for those candidates pursuing careers in education-related majors. Advisors in the School of Health and Kinesiology (H&K) assist students seeking careers in Health, Athletic Training, Exercise Science, and Biomechanics fields.

The College of Education advising model is based on academic major. Each professional advisor is a skilled specialist in their specific advising major area and builds rapport

with students. The model also reduces errors and promotes collaboration with faculty and departments.

The partnership between the student and the advisor typically begins at freshman orientation or through working with prospective students and transfer students. The relationship is maintained throughout a student's undergraduate academic career.

What role do peer advisors play?Peer advisors are current COE students who provide support and advising to freshman and prospective students. It is a reciprocal relationship. We gain a student’s perspective when trying new programs or strategies; they gain proficiency in speaking to large groups and opportunities to learn from their experiences as peer advisors.

How does the team offer extra support to students with challenges and barriers?Through a survey students completed this past spring, three areas were noted as challenging for students: Academic, Financial, and Personal. Advisors assist students dealing with these challenges by referring campus and community resources, and sharing information about scholarships, counseling, and wellness. Students are encouraged to look more closely at what problems are creating academic issues for them through our probation self-assessment.

We believe in supporting students, as they

come, with the goals that they have. Our

student's success is our success.

ROSKENS HALLDr. Gerry Huber, Director,Certification Officer-15-hour certificate renewals

-Added endorsements

-ACT - Accelerated Certification

for Teachers

Ms. Katie Larson-Pre Elementary Majors

-Pre Elementary SPED

-Library Science Majors

-Sign Language Interpreting Majors

Ms. Hanna Solberg-Pre Secondary Majors

-Pre Secondary SPED

-SLP Majors

Ms. Huai-Mei Furman-Elementary Majors

-Elementary SPED Majors

Ms. Lauren Bhogal -Secondary Majors (includes K-12)

-Secondary SPED Majors

SCHOOL OF HEALTH AND KINESIOLOGY (H&K) Mr. Griff Watson-Biomechanics

-Exercise Science

-Student Athletes

Ms. Courtney Luxon-Athletic Training

-Dance Minor

-Exercise Science

-Recreation & Leisure Studies

-Public Health

Collaborations & PartnershipsAcross campus, within COE, and in the community, advisors collaborate with colleagues to share ideas and information:

» UNO Academic Advisors Council

» UNO Committees: General Education, Transfer, General Education Assessment, and Honors Committees, MavTrack, and several hiring committees

» COE Committees: Sponsorship of the student diversity committee and co-chairing of the faculty and staff diversity committee

» Metropolitan Omaha Educational Consortium (MOEC) HR Committee

All team members belong to a national organization for professional advisors:

» Members of National Academic Advising Association (NACADA)

A CULTURE OF SUPPORT & SUCCESS

1,200 students served through advising appointments

33 recruitment and retention events throughout the year

75% of 235 students surveyed in spring 2017 were extremely confident of their program requirements

MEET THE COE ADVISORSThe College of Education Advisors pose with Durango during a recent photo shoot. From left to right: Huai-Mei Furman, Lauren Bhogal, Hanna Solberg, Dr. Gerry Huber, Griff Watson, Katie Larson, Courtney Luxon



schedulein

Some students come to COE right out of high school with

a clear academic path—some have a few stops along

the way. The latter was non-traditional student Aaron

Beard’s experience. Once he returned to college after

an almost 20-year gap (and a few different careers), he

recalls the help of COE Academic Advisor Hanna Solberg

as, "Amazing. There are many difficult hurdles for adults

returning to school, but Hanna has been my own personal

Google. Without her, I would be taking the wrong classes."

Aaron describes himself as a jack-of-all-trades. After high

school, he spent a short time in college before joining

a journeyman program. He took those hands-on skills to

Deloitte by working in facilities, then moving up to an

administrative support position. He got married to wife,

Angie, and they started a family. Life was stable and good,

but he fantasized about doing something else, career-wise.

A new career path emerged after the birth of second

son, Fletcher, who was born profoundly deaf and received

cochlear implants at age one. Knowing that Fletcher

would eventually need speech therapy to learn to hear

with his implants, Aaron contacted colleges the day after

scheduling implantation surgery, to learn about his options

for entering a pre-SLP program. He chose COE, and after

recently completing his first two years, he was officially

accepted into the SLP program which begins this fall.

"I initially returned to school to better understand Fletcher's

needs, to do everything to help my son, but along the way

that changed. Now I want to use my knowledge to benefit

others. Through my home visit experiences for school, I

realized that kids are very receptive to me, and I can talk

to parents, too. I have been on both sides: the parent who’s

scared and the consultant who’s providing answers."

Aaron is already doing critical work towards supporting

deaf children and their families through policy change.

He is the recipient of a Parents Scholarship from the Early

Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) program and

is working on a year-long project—which includes writing

a script for nurses—to improve how parents are notified of

their child's hearing screening results in the hospital.

A self-described "dad" in his courses, he has some advice

for his fellow students, life-changing advice he received

from his own dad at a time when he needed some clear

direction: "Plans change. Get your ducks in a row." And

as Aaron knows first-hand, changes in plans can often

become wonderful new opportunities.

Jenny Kent, of Enfield, England, a PhD student in exercise science/biomechanics, received a 2017-18 Presidential Graduate Fellowship from President Hank Bounds. Jenny earned her undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Nottingham and MS

in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Surrey, both in England. She developed an interest in researching lower limb prosthetics while working at a U.K. military rehabilitation center with individuals who had undergone traumatic amputation. She is specifically interested in better understanding how prosthesis users adapt and control their movement, in order to inform prosthetic prescription, design and rehabilitation techniques.

Ashley Tomjack, a doctoral student in the Department of Educational Leadership, received a 2017 Dennis R. Washington Achievement Graduate Scholarship, which provides financial assistance up to $120,000 to alumni recipients of Horatio Alger scholarships. Ashley

works as an administrative intern for Holling Heights Elementary in Millard Public Schools. This is her eighth year in education. In the past, Ashley served as a first, fourth, and fifth grade teacher. Ashley earned a BS in Education and Human Sciences from University of Nebraska at Lincoln and an MS in Education from UNO. SUMMER•FALL 2017 | 13

"In high school, I returned to my elementary school for an intern experience with my former third-grade teacher. After that, I knew I was going to be an elementary school teacher one day."

Gaby grew up around children in a large yet tight-knit extended family—her mother is the oldest of nine siblings. "As the second-oldest cousin, I loved caring for and playing with my younger cousins."

Family is the driving force behind Gaby’s academic success and journey to college. During the last academic year, Gaby lived with her two sisters—all were UNO students and Thompson Scholars. They created a home away from their South Sioux City home at Maverick Village.

Gaby and her sisters are first generation college students. They are also first generation high school graduates.

When Gaby’s mother and father were young children, economic hardship forced them to quit school. Although he loved school, Gaby’s father left in the 8th grade to help support his family. He worked in the fields of a Nicaraguan farm before enlisting in the military at the age of 18. Gaby's mother grew up in Mexico, and she stopped attending school in 3rd grade to help care for her eight younger siblings.

Gaby tears up when she talks about her parent’s brief time in school, but she describes it as a motivator to pursue her own degree. “Growing up, my dad always enforced school and talked about its importance. He would say, ‘Education is something you will always have. You are so fortunate to live in America where education is free. Don’t take it for granted and always do your best.’”

Gaby shared her family's experiences through her work with UNO's Service Learning Academy. First introduced through faculty member Dr. Sandra Rodriguez-Arroyo’s Foundations of English as a Second Language (ESL) course, Gaby worked over several semesters on the College Prep and Family Learning project for the Learning Community of South Omaha, a program that helps ESL families

STELLAR STUDENT:G A BR IEL A AM ADOR

STELLAR STUDENT:A ARON BE AR D

prepare their children for college by providing resources like campus tours and financial aid literacy classes.

For her work with families and youth, she was honored this past April with a prestigious Outstanding Service Learning Student Award, nominated by Dr. Rodriguez-Arroyo. "Gaby’s commitment to this service-learning experience was more than to fulfill a class requirement, she made it her personal mission to share college preparation information with the families. As a first-generation bilingual Latina college student, Gaby knows firsthand that her parents would have been more than

happy to participate in a program when her older sister was starting to think about college, and she was not afraid to share her experiences."

This fall, Gaby begins final practicum in the Millard School District. She's on track to graduate in 2018 with a dual endorsement in Elementary Education and ESL with a Spanish minor. Gaby’s goal as a bilingual teacher is to support families like hers. "My parents aren’t very fluent in English, and growing up I watched them struggle to communicate with my teachers. As a teacher, I want to help parents like mine feel comfortable."

She gives credit to the advisors who guided her down a personalized academic path. "The advisors at the College of Education have helped me since the beginning. Before entering the Teacher Education program, Katie was super helpful and was always available with her support. She was patient with any questions that I had. Huai-Mei helped see what I would like best, how it would fit into my schedule, and supported what I wanted."

For as long as she can remember, teacher

candidate Gabriela "Gaby" Amador has

dreamed of becoming an educator.

Inspired by his little boy, non-

traditional student Aaron Beard is

working towards a new career in

Speech-Language Pathology (SLP).

Gaby is a first generation college student

and a Thompson Scholar. She is also a first

generation high school graduate.

STELLAR RECOGNITIONS

Aaron Beard | Undergraduate Student, Speech-Language Pathology

Gabriela AmadorUndergraduate Student,

Elementary Education


THE JOY OF SPORT, FOR EVERYONE

Inspired by the Special Olympics tagline, "transforming lives through

the joy of sport, every day, everywhere," Dr. Michael J. Messerole,

Assistant Director and Associate Professor in the School of Health

and Kinesiology, feeds his passion by helping youth and adults with

intellectual and physical disabilities pursue joy through sports.

In Dr. Messerole's early years at UNO, he turned the Adapted

Physical Education course into a hands-on learning lab by bringing

in children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities,

along with their caregivers or parents, to talk to his students and

share their everyday stories of living and participating in sports.

Dr. Messerole has lent this expertise in adapted physical education

to Special Olympics Nebraska (SONE), serving as a swim coach for

15 years (he received the Male Coach of the Year award

in 2016) and Board Member for six years. For his work

on the SONE Program Committee, he offers actionable

strategies to staff and volunteers when working with

athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities.

This spring, Dr. Messerole presented at the Special

Olympics Unified Champion Schools National

Conference about the importance of inclusive physical

education and its impact on school climate. He co-

authored the Unified Physical Education Program

Resource Manual for the International Special Olympics

office, and is currently working on a training manual for

offices around the country to use when introducing the

program to secondary schools.

Beyond his service with SONE, Dr. Messerole co-

coordinates Camp Abilities, a weeklong summer camp

for students with low visual or blindness. He recruits

UNO students to be counselors, which gives them

additional experience working with youth of ALL abilities.

He also co-directs a monthly recreation program for

teens who have low vision or are blind.

Through a collaborative with the Wragge Adaptive Swim

program, Dr. Messerole’s UNO students work one-on-

one in the pool with individuals with disabilities. The

reflections of the UNO students inspire Dr. Messerole

each semester, validating his belief that recognizing

others for their similarities rather than differences will

lead to a better learning environment for all students.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION IN TRINIDADby Dr. Kerry-Ann Escayg

The global experience course Early Childhood Education

(ECE) in the Caribbean was designed to introduce teacher

candidates to early childhood teaching and learning

approaches, young children’s play, and to examine

how culture influences early learning paradigms in the

Trinidadian context.

A related objective was to further develop students’

competencies in qualitative data collection and analysis.

To this end, students participated in two pre-departure

seminars. One seminar focused on the history and culture

of Trinidad, while the second seminar introduced students

to the core tenets of qualitative research, and observations

as a research method, including the different types of

observations used in early childhood research.

Given the scope of the study and its aims, it was

important to provide students with daily cultural activities

and excursions. Students visited several cultural and

historical sites, such as Lopinot, Maracas Beach, Santa

Cruz Green Market, and The National Museum and Art

Gallery. As part of the cultural experience, they also had

the opportunity to view a play entitled "Man Better Man"

at the National Academy for the Performing Arts.

Conversely, the research component consisted of half-

day observations at three distinct ECE centers. Students

observed the content of children’s play, teaching

approaches, materials, and learning activities. At the

end of the school visits, all students participated in a

faculty-led seminar on qualitative data analysis. Using

the research questions and guidelines provided by

the instructor, students reviewed their field notes and

identified patterns in the data.

The College of Education mandates explicit learning

outcomes such as scholarly reflection, the dedication of

practitioners, and responsible citizenry. By participating

in this course, students expanded their collective

understanding of early childhood education from a more

diverse perspective; strengthened their observational and

analytical skills as applied to both teaching and research

practice; reevaluated their current perspectives on play

by developing an awareness of the diverse range of

play activities common to cultural and national contexts

different from their own; and, ultimately, integrated

multidisciplinary approaches with their existing knowledge

of child study and early childhood education.

GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT:

Over the summer, teams of lead science teachers from Omaha

Public Schools examined the flora, fauna, geology, research

efforts, and ecological diversity of the Pacific Northwest and

the Floridian Coastal waters during graduate-level immersion

experience courses offered through COE's Teacher Education

Department. By utilizing scientific tools and practices, each

educator explored local phenomena with digital and analog

observation tools, maintained a field journal, created a field

report, conducted an inquiry investigation, and observed local

research efforts. While in the field, the educators also created

valuable lesson plans to be used in their classrooms.

The STEM Ecosystem is a citywide initiative to maximize science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning through collaboration of institutions, community groups, and businesses working together to build STEM educational pathways and a vibrant STEM workforce that will lead and devise solutions to tomorrow's challenges.

The ecosystem envisions a community where all young people, especially those underrepresented in STEM careers, will have the opportunities needed to be successful in learning, scientific thinking, examining potential career paths and exploring opportunities to extend their educational achievements.

In addition to UNO and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, more than 30 organizations have already come together to assist in the growth of this effort, including Omaha Public Schools, Gallup, Union Pacific Railroad, Collective for Youth, United Way of the Midlands, AIM Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, and Metropolitan Community College.

INTRODUCING THE OMAHA STEM ECOSYSTEMIMMERSION EXPERIENCES FOR EDUCATORS

"It was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever done"

"We went in as colleagues and came out as friends"

Dr. Messerole (right) hands out medals at the Summer Games Powerlifting event | Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Nebraska

By Julie Sigmon, Omaha STEM Ecosystem Director

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:

SUMMER•FALL 2017 | 1716 | HAPPENINGS

WHY I GIVE

OUR STUDENTS, OUR FUTURE.

I started this scholarship because my mother didn't have an opportunity to receive any education beyond elementary school. However, she was responsible for raising both me and my brother, who is a cardiologist, as a single parent. She was so good in mathematics, she was able to solve problems of mine when I was in late years of high school even though she was never taught this kind of math. A very hard-working, gentle, ethical, church-going woman who gave all she had to her children.

- Dr. Nick Stergiou

On Tuesday, May 16th, the Steering Committee for the

effort of elevating the John T. Langan Professorship in Early

Childhood Education to the John T. Langan Community Chair

in Early Childhood Education gathered to celebrate reaching

the $1 million dollar mark. With the help of over 400 donors,

the goal has been reached of creating the highest level of

recognition on UNO’s campus, a Community Chair in John’s

name. This milestone was celebrated with a casual and "John

Langan approved" evening at Beer City where cherished

stories and memories were shared by all those in attendance.

The John T. Langan Community Chair in Early Childhood

Education will be announced and awarded in fall 2018

after which the endowment has been invested a full year.

Thank you to all those that generously contributed, the

Steering Committee and especially, Dr. Tim Wahl for

leading the committee.

My career as a speech-language pathologist for Fremont Public Schools was interesting, challenging, and rewarding. My husband always supported my career and spent many hours assisting with equipment and toy modification and repair.

My husband and I contributed to the Barkley Center and the University of Nebraska Foundation over many decades. After my husband died, I wanted to do something to honor his memory. A few years ago, I saved an article in an issue of the UNO Philanthropy Matters about a graduate whose estate gift funded scholarships. As time moved on, I had further conversations with Foundation staff members about ways to support the University and its students. University of Nebraska programs are designed to serve people with special needs and maximize their potential for success. They are known as some of the best in the nation with high achieving students and researchers.

Because I had received financial assistance when completing requirements for my master's degree and certification, it was a natural fit to establish a scholarship to assist someone pursuing the same career. A benefit for me is getting to meet the recipients and learning more about their interests and future plans.

- Joanne Thietje

VAYA STERGIOU DIST INGUISHED SCHOL ARSHIP IN BIOMECHANICS

UPDATE: THE JOHN T. L ANGAN COMMUNIT Y CHAIR

STORIES FROM THE NU FOUNDATION

Alice Pratt Memorial Scholarship:Jordyn KelleyQuinn LangworthyAmber MazankowskiTiffany OhlrichDavid RansomJasey ChristensenRebekah TorresPeyton WellsKimberley WestermannAlicia Laufenberg

Barbara Zimmerman Fisher Scholarship:Leigha AtkissonLindsey BlazekTaylyn FischerRoxanne GarciaLisa GearheartChristine HansenMariah Johnson

Coral MasekJordyn MoranAllyson OlsenPaige OswaldMickayla PetersenHailey PowersNicole WestSara WordekemperEllie Wragge

Brignoni Education Scholarship/Fellowship:Abigail Innis

Carl Jeanetta Memorial Scholarship:Emily Schutte

Dorothy Peters Teacher Education Scholarship:Brittni JaeckelEmma Tuttle

Claudia Galloway Talent Scholarship:John Kanel

F. Jerome Given (SLP) Scholarship:Laura Midday

Gwen Matthews Memorial Scholarship:Rebecca Burkhardt

Dr. Hollie Bethel Scholarship:Hillary AnsonShelby BlumThomas CruzEmily CurtisAlyssa DeClueAmanda DeWittAlexis EggersCydney GriffinKaitlin HarthoornZachary HendrixCharity JarosSandra JonesJennifer KiltonJessica MartysMolly MejstrikAndrea McCallMorgan ParriottTiana Wilson

Honors – Junior:Rachel MattleyDaniel Wilson

Honors – Senior:Connor MazzeiKathryn Mockerman

Jacqueline Lee Jobst Memorial Scholarship:Melissa Rosas

Talent Scholarship:Marissa HomanMadisen KangerPaige OswaldHannah Wiese

John A & Breta S Jeter SLP Fellowship:Kelsey Sheridan

Lena Hosman Neafus:Lauren BowmanIndigo CarrollAnnie CataniaClaire DyerMelanie FaimonRobert FankhauserMicaela FoxAshley Humphrey

" I am grateful to be receiving the Northern Natural Gas Scholarship again! This scholarship means the world to me, both financially and as a future teacher. It gives me the opportunity to get hands-on experience as a tutor, helping students at the Hope Center with their school work, and also allows me to build a relationship with the students of the community."

- Tylon Stearns Elementary Education Major

2017-18 Northern Natural Gas Scholarship Recipient

Christopher JacksonRiley JenkinsAftyn JohnsonAlexandria JohnsonLillian MescherShareen NadeeriPaula NuguidHannah OckingaBrian PomplunPaul SandersJackson SchnitzlerJessica SilknitterMorgan ThoeneKylee VaskeHannah West

Leo and Joanne Thietje (SLP) Scholarship:Jamie Petersen

Lucille Bowers Talent Scholarship:Alex Seigel

Lykke Practice Teaching Scholarship:Kelsy Neil

MacAllister Scholars in Education:Taylor GunterNajee Mitchell

Northern Natural Gas Company Scholars in Education:Tylon StearnsCaleb WissmanAlyssa VanceCheryl WeldonZorayda Puente

Parker Family UNO COE Financial Aid Fund:Alexa McEvoy

Patricia Lynn Christie Deaf Education Scholarship:Becky Carignan

Paul Ackerson Memorial Scholarship:Zachary Dockweiler

Robert L. Ackerman Scholarship:Megan Christensen

Vaya Stergiou Distinguished Scholarship in Biomechanics:Samantha Sack

Weitz Company Education Scholarship:Autumn Henkenius

2017-18 SCHOL ARSHIPS

Jan Christensen and Carole Langan celebrate reaching the $1 million mark

Interested in supporting the College of Education? Contact Nicole Massara at 402-502-4105 or [email protected]


FACULTY AWARDSDr. Jessica Hagaman (1), was the recipient of a 2017 UNO Alumni Outstanding

Teaching Award.

Dr. Sofia Jawed-Wessel (2), was recognized at the Women's Center for

Advancement (WCA's) 30th annual Tribute to Women. Dr. Jawed-Wessel also

received an Outstanding Achievement Award at the Chancellor's Commission on

the Status of Women luncheon, honoring the women who have made important

contributions to UNO. Her TED talk, “Women’s sexual pleasure: What are we so

afraid of?” was promoted on TED.com, and has been viewed over 1.5 million times.

Emerita Professor Dr. Carol Mitchell received a Legacy Award for her

40-year career in science education, and Mr. Derrick Nero (3) received an

Innovator’s Award for his creative curriculum and teaching methods from the

Empowerment Network.

Dr. Franklin Thompson III was the recipient of a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award

from Douglas County and the City of Omaha.

Dr. Becky Pasco was the recipient of a Distinguished Service Award from the

Nebraska School Librarians Association.

Dr. Stevie Chepko was the recipient of a 2016 Legacy Award from the National

Physical Education & School Sport Institute.

Dr. Sara Myers received a $2 million National Institutes of Health (NIH) Research

Project Grant (R01) to investigate ankle support device for patients with peripheral

artery disease.

1

3

2

DR. ASHLEY BLOUNT RECEIVES BEST PRACTICES RESEARCHER AWARD Dr. Ashley Blount received the Best Practices Researcher Award at the American Counseling Association’s (ACA) 2017 Conference and Expo in San Francisco, CA in March.

The Best Practices Researcher Award is given to individuals who completed research projects that further the evidence-base for counseling practice.

The award was a result of a Wellness Scale developed by Dr. Blount—the Helping Professional Wellness Discrepancy Scale (HPWDS)—which measures the difference between perceived wellness (how well we think we are) and aspirational wellness (how well we wish we were) in helping professionals (counselors, psychologists, and social workers).

DR. NICK STERGIOU TWICE INDUCTED AS FELLOW, RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS CHANCELLOR'S MEDAL Elected by his peers for his outstanding professional and public

service accomplishments, Dr. Nick Stergiou was inducted to

the prestigious American Institute for Medical and Biological

Engineering (AIMBE) College of Fellows, Class of 2017 during

AIMBE's annual meeting in March at the National Academy of

Sciences Great Hall in Washington, D.C.

In August, he was inducted as a Fellow of the American Society of

Biomechanics at the Annual Meeting in Boulder, CO. Dr. Stergiou

was also recognized with a Chancellor's Medal during UNO's May

Commencement ceremony. The Chancellor's Medal is a means of

recognizing extraordinary service to UNO and excellence in the

recipient's chosen profession.

In April, Dr. Mitzi Ritzman received two UNO awards for exemplifying excellence in

her work. During Faculty Honors Convocation, she was awarded the notable 2017

Outstanding Service Learning Faculty Award. At the Student Involvement Awards

Banquet, Dr. Ritzman was awarded Advisor of the Year for her work with UNO’s National

Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA)/Collegiate Sertoma chapter.

Dr. Ritzman's professional focus in speech-language pathology and autism spectrum

disorder (ASD), along with her passion for advocacy, has led to a 7-year partnership

as co-director of the Transitions Program—recently featured in a prominent

Community Engagement Spotlight on UNO's website:

Dr. Ashley Blount receives the 2017 American Counseling Association (ACA) Best Practices Research Award in San Francisco. Dr. Blount is an assistant professor in the Department of Counseling.

Dr. Nick Stergiou is the Assistant Dean of the Division of Biomechanics and Research Development, the Distinguished Community Research Chair and professor in Biomechanics, as well as the Director of the Biomechanics Research Building and the Center for Research in Human Movement Variability at UNO. He is also a professor of the Department of Environmental, Agricultural, and Occupational Health at the College of Public Health at the University Nebraska Medical Center.

Founded by Dr. Troy Romero from the College of Public Affairs and

Community Service, the Transitions Program is a peer-mediated social

learning skills program, providing opportunities for young adults on

the autism spectrum to practice and enhance social competencies in

structured and unstructured group events on and off campus.

To Dr. Ritzman, Transitions is especially important in order to serve

those young adults who struggle to meet the dynamic expectations of

life on a college campus or in an employment setting. The organization

is constantly improving through data-driven performance evaluation

helping to optimize their programs. Transitions is now a resource for

community members, families, and students alike on campus.

The program has helped people with ASD to develop better social skills

and to gain more confidence in their ability to be outgoing and utilize

those skills with improved composure.

Dr. Mitzi J. Ritzman is an associate professor in the Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders in the College of Education and co-director of Transitions, a peer-meditated program for young adults on the autism spectrum

DR. MITZI RITZMAN, TRANSITIONS PROGRAM RECEIVE ACCOLADES

ALUMNI NEWS

RETIREMENT

PUBLICATION

SEVEN COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ALUMNI NAMED

2017 ALICE BUFFETT OUTSTANDING TEACHERSAmy Batten | MS in Counseling, '07Guidance counselor at Springville Elementary School15 years with Omaha Public Schools (OPS)

Connie Colton | BS in Education, '92Math teacher at McMillan Magnet Center25 years with OPS

Patricia Freyermuth | BS in Education, '05Fourth-grade teacher at Crestridge Magnet Center12 years with OPS

Tomie Green | BS in Education, '92 Social studies teacher at McMillan Magnet Center24 years with OPS

Kathleen Higgins | MS in Special Education, '84 Special education teacher at Druid Hill Elementary School 25 years with OPS

Randall Howard | BS in Education, '09 Social studies teacher at Burke High School 8 years with OPS

Kimberly Talamantes | BS in Education, '10 English teacher at South High School 5 years with OPS

FOUR COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ALUMNI

RECOGNIZED BY MILLARD PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATIONTroy & Lu Elwood Award for Excellence in Middle School Teaching Cari Guthrie | Kiewit Middle School | BS in Education, '99

Caryl & Katherine Brown Award for Excellence in High School Teaching Jeff Gehrke | Millard West High School | BS in Education, '10

Millard Public Schools Foundation 2017 Hall of Fame inductees: Courtney Matulka | Science teacher at George Beadle Middle School BS in Education, '08 | MS in Education, '10 Jim Sutfin | Superintendent at Millard Public Schools MS in Educational Administration and Supervision, '93 EdD in Educational Administration, '02

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION ALUMNA AND WESTSIDE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS EDUCATOR WINS

SCHRAGER DISTINGUISHED TEACHING AWARDCarla Ohm | MS in Special Education, '85Second-grade teacher at Paddock Road Elementary School

Dr. Harrison Means has guided students for 28 years in our department. His students discovered their passion as they crafted their philosophy statements and identified major theorists who speak for them. His students grappled with ethical dilemmas waiting for them in their future classrooms. Whether he was crafting essay questions for graduate students or raising a question in a committee meeting, Harrison’s insight and critical thinking helped make both the products and the people better. Simply put, his service made us stronger.

- Dr. Sarah Edwards | Professor, Chair of Teacher Education

In June, graduate-level teacher candidates worked with students from Lewis and Clark Middle School to show them what life is like on campus, along with fun activities.

On April 6, over 100 students celebrated National Biomechanics Day at the Biomechanics Research Building. They participated in kid-friendly demos, toured the labs, and met the Biomechanics research scientists.

COE welcomed young women from Girls Inc. of Omaha to the fifth exciting summer of Eureka! STEM camp. This partnership is designed to encourage young women of color to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Nicole Partusch, BS '17, has received a Fulbright Award from the Institute of International Education on behalf of the U.S.-Spain Fulbright Commission. She will be an English Teaching Assistant in Asturias, Spain during the 2017-18 academic year.

Kelsey Phipps Sheridan, BS '16, was recognized with a 2016 National NSSLHA Distinguished Student of Service Award.

Maddie Fennell, MS '05, is the new Executive Director of the Nebraska State Education Association (NSEA).

The Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals named Matt Blomenkamp, EdD '11, of Bennington Junior-Senior High School its 2016 New Principal of the Year.

Allison Johnson, BS '17, is the recipient of a 2017 National NSSLHA Member Honors—Speaking Out & Being Heard Award and will be honored in November at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention in Los Angeles.

Building Coordinator for the Biomechanics Research Building, Jeff Kaipust, BS '08 & MS '10, was honored with UNO's Employee of the Year Award for 2016. He also received a KUDOS Award at the August 2017 Board of Regents Meeting.

The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) recognized Natalie Vert, MA '16, for organizing athletic training services at the LONGINES FEI World Cup Jumping & FEI Dressage Finals in March.

Chelsey Harvey, MA '16, and Madeleine Moore, MS '17, were honored with Outstanding Graduate Student Awards by Dean Nancy Edick.

STEMSPRING & SUMMER OUTREACH

"Beyond the Flannel Board," authored by Dr. Susan McWilliams

Chelsey Harvey


FACULTY UPDATE

NATE HUNTAssistant Professor

PhD in Integrative Biology from University of California, Berkeley

Research interests: The roles of Biomechanics, Motor Control and Motor Learning in Locomotion Stability and Adaptability

PHILIPPE MALCOLMAssistant Professor

PhD | Ghent University

Research interests: Understanding and optimization of gait with wearable devices such as exoskeletons, footwear and prostheses

JORDAN WICKSTROMInstructor

MS in Exercise Science from UNC-Greensboro; currently in final year of PhD in Exercise Science, UNO

Research interests: Early brain and motor development in children at risk for or diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

ANDREAS SKIADOPOULOSResearch Associate

PhD | University of Extremadura, Spain

Research interests: Biomechanics of Human Motion, Human Robotics, Physical Ergonomic

JOÃO ROCHA VAZResearch Associate

PhD | University of Lisbon, Portugal

Research interests: Human movement variability; postural control; sports medicine; injury prevention; muscle-tendon biomechanics

AMANDA KERNAssistant Professor - Special Education

PhD University of Massachusetts Amherst

Research interests: Reading, assessment of reading, curriculum-based measurement, data based decision-making, test efficiency, instructional technology

MARCIA ADLERInstructor - Public Health

PhD | University of Nebraska Lincoln

Research Interests: Adolescent & Women’s Health, Resilience as it relates to Addiction & Mental Health, and Culturally appropriate health care delivery

CHRISTOPHER BURCALAssistant Professor - Athletic Training

PhD in Biology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Research interests: Treatment efficacy, mechanisms, and sensorimotor control in Chronic Ankle Instability patients, including dual-tasking and central nervous system function

SONG-YOUNG PARK Assistant Professor - Exercise Physiology

PhD from The University of Utah, Postdoctoral fellowship in department of cardiology, Boston University School of Medicine

Research interests: The integrative function of cardiac, blood vessel, and skeletal muscle in terms of oxygen transport and utilization which is a process of oxygen delivery from atmospheric air to tissues. The complex interactions of oxidative stress, vascular function, and skeletal muscle function in diseased populations including hypertension, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease.

BIOMECHANICSSCHOOL OF HEALTH AND KINESIOLOGY DEAN'S OFFICETEACHER EDUCATION

SPECIAL EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION DISORDERS

JULIE BELLAssistant Professor - Literacy

PhD in Curriculum, Instruction, and Teacher Education from Michigan State University

Research interests: Mentoring of pre-service and in-service teachers, specifically from the mentor's perspective; English education

ANGELA DUBUCInstructor - Literacy

MS, University of Nebraska at Omaha, currently completing MA, Doane University

Research Interests: Literacy Education, Assessment, Instructional Coaching and Mentoring, Educational Equity

KELLY GOMEZ JOHNSONAssistant Professor - STEM Education

EdD | University of Nebraska at Omaha

Research interests: Mathematics education, instructional leadership, professional development, and instructional coaching and mentoring

STEVIE CHEPKOAssistant Dean

EdD in Sport History/Curriculum & Instruction from Temple University

Stevie Chepko has spent the last 30 years in higher education with her most recent position being the Sr. VP for Accreditation for

Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Before CAEP Dr. Chepko was a department chair at Winthrop University for 12 years. Her major areas of research are in pedagogy, women’s sport history, and motor learning and control. Dr. Chepko has been nationally recognized for her work in assessment.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR FACULTY AT:coe.unomaha.edu/faculty

As of April, the Department of Biomechanics and the Center for Research in Human Movement Variability (MOVCENTR) are included under the Division of Biomechanics and Research Development and will continue to reside in the Biomechanics Research Building.


Named for the university’s first female

department chair, Dr. Hollie Bethel, the

Distinguished Alumni Luncheon began as

a way to recognize significant achievements of

alumni who passionately embody the College

of Education mission in their careers and

community involvement. Dr. Hollie Bethel was

29TH ANNUAL HOLLIE BETHEL DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI LUNCHEON

DR. MARK ADLERDistinguished Service Award | Department of Educational LeadershipCurrently in his fifth-year leading Ralston Public Schools, Dr. Adler has devoted more than 25 years to the success of Nebraska's public schools. Before joining Ralston Public Schools, Dr. Adler served students and families in Petersburg, Elgin, and Nebraska City. Dr. Adler has served many roles in education, including industrial technology teacher, football coach, basketball coach, bus driver, high school principal, activities director, assistant superintendent for business and now superintendent of schools. A first-generation college student, Dr. Adler earned his Doctorate in Educational Administration from the UNO’s College of Education in 2008.

MADDIE FENNELLDistinguished Professional Achievement Award | Teacher Education DepartmentMaddie brings extensive experience and passion to her work as an advocate for children and public education. She is a National Board Certified teacher, a former Nebraska Teacher of the Year, and a 27-year veteran of the classroom who also served as a mentor to her peers as a literary coach. She is currently the Executive Director of the Nebraska State Education Association. Maddie spent three years on special assignment to the U.S. Department of Education as a Teacher Leader in Residence in the Office of the Secretary, and as a Teaching Ambassador Fellow. She also served as a Teacher Fellow for the National Education Association. She is currently serving as Secretary of the National Network of State Teachers of the Year and as a teacher representative on the Convergence Center for Policy Resolution Education Reimagined Project. Maddie earned a Master of Science in Elementary Education and a Certificate in Urban Education from UNO’s College of Education in 2005, and an endorsement in assessment from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln.

DR. JESSIE M. HUISINGADistinguished Promising Professional Award | Department of BiomechanicsAn interdisciplinary researcher throughout her career, Dr. Jessie Huisinga is an engineer trained in biomechanics and neuroscience. Jessie is a Senior Scientist at the Landon Center on Aging at the University of Kansas (KU) Medical Center campus in Kansas City, Kansas, an Assistant Professor in the KU Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, and affiliate faculty in the KU Bioengineering Department. As Director of the Human Performance Laboratory at the Landon Center for Aging, Dr. Huisinga aims to improve the day-to-day life of patients struggling with movement disorders, such as persons with multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, by identifying the underlying sensorimotor problems that occur as a result of the disease in order to introduce more effective treatment protocols. Dr. Huisinga is an alumna of the College of Education’s Biomechanics program, completing her Master of Science in 2007 and her Doctorate degree in 2010.

CYNDI MUHLBAUERDistinguished Professional Achievement Award | Department of CounselingA tireless advocate for trauma victims and mental health programs, Cyndi Muhlbauer has dedicated her professional career to advancing the field of trauma therapy. Cyndi is a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). After working with trauma clients at Lutheran Family Services for over 10 years and achieving measurable and encouraging outcomes through work with EMDR therapy, Cyndi now advocates on a statewide level for innovative and evidence-based trauma treatment and resources for low income individuals through her role as with Cenpatico. Cyndi earned a Master of Arts in Counseling from UNO’s College of Education in 2002. She also holds an undergraduate degree from UNO.

BRENT SCHADEDistinguished Service Award | Department of Special Education and Communication DisordersBrent has served Millard Public Schools students for 16 years, working with children with disabilities of all ages—from babies to 21-year-olds. Currently Brent serves as Special Education Coordinator, preparing young adults with disabilities to successfully transition from high school to independent living. He began his professional career as a speech-language pathologist in the Special Education Preschool Program, and has also held the role of Speech-Language Pathology Department Head. Brent is an alumnus of the College of Education’s Speech-Language Pathology program, completing his Bachelor of Science in 1996 and his Master of Science in 1998. In 2011, Brent received his Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Doane College.

STACIE TOVARDistinguished Promising Professional Award | School of Health, Physical Education, and RecreationStacie Tovar is the owner of CrossFit Omaha and a world-recognized CrossFit athlete. She is also a writer and fitness expert for LiveWellNebraska.com, the health and fitness website for the Omaha World Herald. Stacie left her corporate job in 2013 to become a full-time CrossFit athlete. She has since become a 7-time CrossFit Games World Competitor with a best finish of 11th in the World, an 8-time CrossFit Regional Competitor, and a 3-time CrossFit World Team Series Champion. Stacie earned her Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from UNO’s College of Education in 2007.

a pioneer for the Department of Elementary

Education (now Teacher Education); modeling

high-standards, she led by example and

was highly revered by her students and

colleagues. Her legacy continues through the

annual luncheon, celebrating the College of

Education’s most accomplished alumni.


26 | HAPPENINGS

HAPPENINGSSummer|Fall 2017

Lois G. Roskens DeanNancy A. Edick

Associate DeanPaul Barnes

Assistant DeanStevie Chepko

Publications Editor/DesignMimi Boswell, Communications Specialist

PhotographyRyan HenricksonMimi Boswelland other collaborators

Photos on page 2 courtesy of Thomas Grady Photography and UNO Libraries Archives and Special Collections. Graphics on pages 6 and 9 designed in part by ibrandify / Freepik.

Happenings is published by the Office of the Dean in the College of Education at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Issues of the magazine can be found at coe.unomaha.edu/happenings. As our publications continue to evolve in design and content, we welcome commentary to promote the best communication for our supporters. Please direct all requests to [email protected].

Our mailing list is compiled from multiple sources, some readers may receive duplicate copies. Please share extra copies, or send us the address panels from all the copies you receive and we will correct the duplication. Send to: the Office of the Dean, College of Education, 211 Roskens Hall, 6005 Dodge Street, Omaha, NE 68182-0161, or call 402.554.2719.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.


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OMAHA, NEPERMIT NO 301

Roskens Hall 6005 Dodge StreetOmaha, NE 68182-0161

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08.2017

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